IT STARTS...By Combatting Racism

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Racism is the belief that there are human groups with particular (usually physical) characteristics that make them superior or inferior to others. Racist behaviour can be overt, such as treating people differently according to their race or colour, or covert, when society systematically treats groups differently based on some form of discriminating characteristic.

Systemic or Institutional racism: This is racism that exists within social institutions (such as governmental organizations, schools, banks, and courts of law). It is the giving of negative treatment to a group of people based on their race.

Through the hiring process, employers may state they are looking for the "right fit." The "right fit" may tend to resemble the rest of the staff they have already hired. This may send a message about the diminished value of diversity within an organization or lack of interest to hire anyone outside of the dominant culture.

Resources

Learn about the Ontario Human Rights Code that provides for equal rights, opportunities, and freedom from discrimination. The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) provides support for individuals and organizations to identify and address racism and discrimination: http://www.ohrc.on.ca/en/racial-discrimination-brochure.Brochure also available for download.

Dr. Camara Jones shares four allegories on "race" and racism at a local TEDx event. Through telling stories foundational knowledge on these concepts is explored and individuals are empowered to act against racism. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNhcY6fTyBM